A place-based high school semester program.
Western United States
Fall 2022: August 26 – December 8
Montana | Wyoming | Utah | Colorado | Arizona
Unleash your inner explorer as you meander through the forest-covered mountains of the Rockies; the red-streaked walls of southern Utah; and the cacti-filled deserts of the Southwest. You’ll live out your van-life dreams as students and faculty travel the region in two sprinter vans, camping and staying in lodges along the journey. Discover the West like you’ve never before.
This 15-week semester will develop your critical inquiry skills; broaden your understanding of power, privilege and identity in the US; help you pursue outdoor challenges through multiple expeditions; and strengthen your community-based leadership principles. You will finish the semester feeling inspired to form your own opinions, deeply connected to your tight-knit cohort and empowered to confront the beauty and complexities of U.S. realities.
Looking back, I enjoyed every moment of not being inside a classroom. it’s just so powerful. There were moments that were really challenging but we got through them together – which is also a unique experience. There is nothing more exhilarating than having a baby bear join your history lesson or writing essays wearing gloves and a headlamp by a river.
Rimone Aram, Fall 2023 Western US |
In class, you might...
- Observe how flash-floods shape the canyon ecosystems of southern Utah's Bears Ears National Monument.
- Discuss the historical and present controversies around public land management in the west.
- Unpack US immigration policy while having class in front of the US - Mexico border wall
- Hear from local environmental and Indigenous activists as you learn about the Land Back movement for indigenous sovereignty.
Outside of class, you might...
- Rock climb the granite walls of southern Arizona.
- Explore the geysers of Yellowstone National Park after waking up early to wolf-watch in Lamar Valley.
- Participate in cultural exchange on Navajo Nation while your group stays with a Navajo host.
- Packraft Montana's Dearborn river, finessing your paddle strokes.
Student Photo Gallery
